Date of Award

Summer 6-21-2014

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Abstract

Forensic DNA analysis is a valuable tool for law enforcement and judicial communities because it offers the discriminating power to either convict, exonerate or eliminate individuals in criminal investigations. The growing demand for DNA analysis is creating significant DNA backlogs at crime laboratories across our county. Federal grants from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) have assisted in developing and adopting methods to improve laboratory processes. These methods serve as models for forensic science laboratories in creating efficiency improvement strategies. This research study evaluated and implemented a team-based DNA analysis model based on grant funded research using a “lean laboratory” approach currently in operation at the Oakland Police Crime Laboratory. This study’s findings will determine if a DNA lean laboratory team-based approach operates with greater efficiency than analysts working independently, thus producing greater throughput, faster turnaround time, reduced costs and improved morale. Since 1986, this forensic science practitioner has served in the capacity of criminalist, toxicologist, drug chemist, serologist, crime scene responder, and DNA analyst. While a Criminalistics Unit and DNA Unit Supervisor, she developed and instituted case management systems and established operational workflows. As the current Forensic Manager at the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff (CCCSO), Forensic Services Division, Criminalistics Section, she oversees the Biology Unit, which performs DNA analysis. Satisfying the demanding needs of the criminal justice community has been an on-going struggle facing the laboratory. New, novel and progressive approaches were evaluated and implemented for the purpose of this research study.

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